How to glue a side view mirror

Written by brenda priddy| 13/05/2017

Gluing a side view mirror is easy. (side view mirror image by Martin Shipps from Fotolia.com)

A side view mirror is a necessary piece of equipment on any car. The side view mirror allows the driver to see behind and to the sides of the car, which prevents accidents while changing lanes. Side view mirrors must be present and complete to pass an MoT. When a side view mirror becomes damaged, it is important to replace the mirror right away to prevent accidents. Replacing a side view mirror is a simple project that anyone can do at home.

Remove the old mirror from the frame. Wear work gloves and safety goggles, when removing the old mirror, for safety. Place a large bucket under the mirror to catch any broken glass pieces.

Connect a heat gun to a nearby electrical socket. Use an extension cord, if necessary, to reach the outlet and mirror. Heat the surface of the mirror with the heat gun until the surface of the mirror is hot to the touch.

Scrape away the mirror pieces with a large, flat head screwdriver. Try to remove one piece at a time. If the mirror is still in one or two solid pieces, then hit the mirror with the back of the screwdriver to break it into smaller pieces for easier removal. Scrape the pieces out one by one until they are all removed. If necessary, reheat the surface of the mirror if the adhesive hardens again before all of the pieces were removed.

Clean away any remaining glue by wiping the surface of the mirror with a wet rag. Do not use chemical products on the mirror housing or the adhesive may not stick when you glue the new mirror. Wipe down both sides of the mirror as well.

Apply five beads of silicone to the back of the mirror. Place one bead on each corner and one in the middle. Use a bead about 3/8 of an inch in diameter and apply it 1.3 cm (1/2 inch) from each mirror edge.

Press the mirror firmly into the mirror housing for about 30 seconds; however, do not apply too much pressure or the mirror may break again. Wrap the entire mirror housing and mirror with masking tape to hold the mirror in place so it does not fall out before the glue dries. Leave the tape over the mirror for 24 hours before removing.